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Wager of Hearts #2
The All-Star Antes Up
“No strings, no rings.” That’s Luke Archer’s motto. As the champion quarterback for the New York Empire—not to mention a self-made billionaire—Luke has given up on serious relationships. Women only want him for one the thrill of being with a superstar. And he likes it that way too. But when his best friend announces he’s retiring from football to spend time with his wife and kids, Luke feels like he’s missing out on something much bigger than his career.
The assistant concierge in Luke’s luxury high-rise, Miranda Tate fled her family’s dairy farm to come to the bright lights of New York City. She works hard to move up and sends her spare earnings home to her brother. When she and Luke meet, there’s an instant sexual attraction, but they’re in completely different leagues. Could Miranda be just the woman Luke needs to win the most important game of his life?
The assistant concierge in Luke’s luxury high-rise, Miranda Tate fled her family’s dairy farm to come to the bright lights of New York City. She works hard to move up and sends her spare earnings home to her brother. When she and Luke meet, there’s an instant sexual attraction, but they’re in completely different leagues. Could Miranda be just the woman Luke needs to win the most important game of his life?
354 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 31, 2016
934 people are currently reading
1029 people want to read
About the author
Nancy Herkness
23 books896 followersNancy Herkness is the award-winning, best-selling author of contemporary romance for readers who love richly developed characters and an immersive reading experience. Meet the wealthy, powerful alpha heroes who need down-to-earth women to show them how to find soul-deep love and pulse-racing passion. Nancy’s vivid writing brings to life settings both elegant and homey, while making her flawed but fascinating characters leap off the page and into your heart. Savor the thrill of falling in love by diving into one of Nancy’s books.
Author of the Royal Caleva, Consultants, Wager of Hearts, and Whisper Horse series, as well as several other contemporary romance novels, Nancy has sold over a million books. She is also a two-time nominee for the Romance Writers of America’s RITA® award.
Nancy has received many honors for her work, including the Book Buyers Best Top Pick, the New England Readers’ Choice award, and the National Excellence in Romance Fiction Award. She graduated from Princeton University with a degree in English literature and creative writing.
A native of West Virginia, Nancy now lives twelve miles west of the Lincoln Tunnel in suburban New Jersey with two tabby cats.
For more information about Nancy and her books, visit www.NancyHerkness.com. Sign up for her monthly newsletter—and get a free novella—at: http://www.nancyherkness.com/newsletter/
Social media links:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nancyherkness
BookBub author: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/nancy...
Amazon author: https://amazon.com/stores/author/B001...
Author of the Royal Caleva, Consultants, Wager of Hearts, and Whisper Horse series, as well as several other contemporary romance novels, Nancy has sold over a million books. She is also a two-time nominee for the Romance Writers of America’s RITA® award.
Nancy has received many honors for her work, including the Book Buyers Best Top Pick, the New England Readers’ Choice award, and the National Excellence in Romance Fiction Award. She graduated from Princeton University with a degree in English literature and creative writing.
A native of West Virginia, Nancy now lives twelve miles west of the Lincoln Tunnel in suburban New Jersey with two tabby cats.
For more information about Nancy and her books, visit www.NancyHerkness.com. Sign up for her monthly newsletter—and get a free novella—at: http://www.nancyherkness.com/newsletter/
Social media links:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nancyherkness
BookBub author: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/nancy...
Amazon author: https://amazon.com/stores/author/B001...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 303 reviews
September 29, 2021
I am bit behind from my reading. So many things happening that need my attention.
The All Star Antes Up is a fun book. I enjoyed it more than I expected. Yes the plot is nothing extraordinary. The characters are likeable but their chemistry is bit forced. Miss Herkeness somehow makes it work.
My only complain is the lenght of this book. It is really long with more than 10 hours.
4 stars
The All Star Antes Up is a fun book. I enjoyed it more than I expected. Yes the plot is nothing extraordinary. The characters are likeable but their chemistry is bit forced. Miss Herkeness somehow makes it work.
My only complain is the lenght of this book. It is really long with more than 10 hours.
4 stars
June 1, 2016
I’m going to do this a little differently. I’m going to tell you about BOTH of the books in the Wager of Hearts series, because I read them basically back-to-back, and I’m finding it utterly impossible to separate my feelings about them.
Let me start with a story…
I have this friend. This friend that I both love AND hate at the moment. Mostly love, but, well…
Here’s how it went. I was lamenting with another friend about how long it’d been since I’d read a classic, solid billionaire story. You know what I mean, right? One that’s just so charming you can’t put it down—a suave, sexy and swoony man of money, falling for a woman that’s ONLY interested in him, not in his stock portfolio or bank balance.
And then, out of the blue, my friend (friend #1—you still with me?!) tells me about this book. The CEO Buys In, it’s called. She remembered loving it when it came out mid-last year, and GUESS WHAT?! Book two is due out in days!!
So, placing my trust in my friend, I grabbed book one, and cracked it open.
And read. And read. And read. And read. Until the end. Then sat on my grabby hands for two (looooooooong) days while I waited for book two, The All-Star Antes Up, to go live.
Which brings me to now.
I’M ALL CAUGHT UP and I don’t want to be. I want the third book. I want to re-read these first two. I want to love on them, be charmed by them, and get turned on by them. I want to fall for Nathan, the CEO, and Luke, the All-Star, again. I want to see them find unassuming, but lovely, women to love them for THEM.
I want.
I want.
I want.
I’m not ashamed of it either. These books were FANTASTIC. Not only that, they were the exact books I had in mind when I said I wanted a classic billionaire book. High on love, high on life, high on tension—sexual and otherwise. They were smart. Exceptionally well-written. Funny. Sweet. Sexy. H.O.T.
Basically, The CEO Buys In and The All-Star Antes Up were ALL. THE. THINGS.
So, you see, I love my friend. I do. Because without her, I might not have found these books—or this author, whose back-list I am now desperate to get familiar with. But then again, I also wouldn’t have this sad, little twinge in my heart, knowing that Gavin’s still looking for love—and I’m still waiting to read about him finding it… ~ Beth, 5 stars
Let me start with a story…
I have this friend. This friend that I both love AND hate at the moment. Mostly love, but, well…
Here’s how it went. I was lamenting with another friend about how long it’d been since I’d read a classic, solid billionaire story. You know what I mean, right? One that’s just so charming you can’t put it down—a suave, sexy and swoony man of money, falling for a woman that’s ONLY interested in him, not in his stock portfolio or bank balance.
And then, out of the blue, my friend (friend #1—you still with me?!) tells me about this book. The CEO Buys In, it’s called. She remembered loving it when it came out mid-last year, and GUESS WHAT?! Book two is due out in days!!
So, placing my trust in my friend, I grabbed book one, and cracked it open.
And read. And read. And read. And read. Until the end. Then sat on my grabby hands for two (looooooooong) days while I waited for book two, The All-Star Antes Up, to go live.
Which brings me to now.
I’M ALL CAUGHT UP and I don’t want to be. I want the third book. I want to re-read these first two. I want to love on them, be charmed by them, and get turned on by them. I want to fall for Nathan, the CEO, and Luke, the All-Star, again. I want to see them find unassuming, but lovely, women to love them for THEM.
I want.
I want.
I want.
I’m not ashamed of it either. These books were FANTASTIC. Not only that, they were the exact books I had in mind when I said I wanted a classic billionaire book. High on love, high on life, high on tension—sexual and otherwise. They were smart. Exceptionally well-written. Funny. Sweet. Sexy. H.O.T.
Basically, The CEO Buys In and The All-Star Antes Up were ALL. THE. THINGS.
So, you see, I love my friend. I do. Because without her, I might not have found these books—or this author, whose back-list I am now desperate to get familiar with. But then again, I also wouldn’t have this sad, little twinge in my heart, knowing that Gavin’s still looking for love—and I’m still waiting to read about him finding it… ~ Beth, 5 stars
April 10, 2016
What a fun little read. FYI, you do not have to have read book one in this series to be able to enjoy The All-Star Antes Up. Always a plus in any series read. However, there is a running thread that will make you curious about book one and the other book to come.
So, the lovely Miranda Tate is the darling of her concierge company. To all but her boss, who tries his best to put her down, ensnare her in trouble and just plain be annoying. It’s when he is conspiring to get her in trouble that she meets the resident of the buildings penthouse, Luke Archer.
The football star and self-made billionaire has no time or patience for petty and blatantly asinine behavior. What he sees is a beautiful, smart woman getting flack for having refused an improper request from his jerk of a brother.
What culminates between these two begins as an apology and ends in romance.
Sweet fun and a quick little read perfect for a sunny afternoon.
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So, the lovely Miranda Tate is the darling of her concierge company. To all but her boss, who tries his best to put her down, ensnare her in trouble and just plain be annoying. It’s when he is conspiring to get her in trouble that she meets the resident of the buildings penthouse, Luke Archer.
The football star and self-made billionaire has no time or patience for petty and blatantly asinine behavior. What he sees is a beautiful, smart woman getting flack for having refused an improper request from his jerk of a brother.
What culminates between these two begins as an apology and ends in romance.
Sweet fun and a quick little read perfect for a sunny afternoon.
Follow us on
KT Book Reviews
tumblr
YouTube
May 31, 2016
4 solid stars!
This is such a well written contemporary sports romance. I was pleasantly surprised! I didn't read the first book of this series, but after reading this, I'm sure I'm going to check it out (as well as the subsequent book).
Not only does it have this well rounded story, but it doesn't lack steam.. at all. It perfectly blends this mix of sports superstar, hot sex, ordinary girl, and great plot. The H is actually a decent guy which shocked me since he's the quarterback; I'm not saying he hasn't gotten around in the past, but he's not a tool. The heroine is likable but may be a little too reserved for my tastes. They tiptoe around each other for awhile and towards the end of that I wanted to scream at them to get it on already! :) It's cute, sweet, and exactly what I needed when I read it.
I was entertained throughout the entire story! Sweet and sexy read!
ARC was received from the publishers via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This is such a well written contemporary sports romance. I was pleasantly surprised! I didn't read the first book of this series, but after reading this, I'm sure I'm going to check it out (as well as the subsequent book).
Not only does it have this well rounded story, but it doesn't lack steam.. at all. It perfectly blends this mix of sports superstar, hot sex, ordinary girl, and great plot. The H is actually a decent guy which shocked me since he's the quarterback; I'm not saying he hasn't gotten around in the past, but he's not a tool. The heroine is likable but may be a little too reserved for my tastes. They tiptoe around each other for awhile and towards the end of that I wanted to scream at them to get it on already! :) It's cute, sweet, and exactly what I needed when I read it.
I was entertained throughout the entire story! Sweet and sexy read!
ARC was received from the publishers via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 12, 2016
audio read
3.5 stars ☆☆☆.5
When reading a sports romance, the hero is more often than not a playboy/manwhore. Luke Archer was a down to earth H who didn't flaunt his past conquest throughout the book. Although it was briefly implied that he didn't have serious relationships (especially during the football season), not a lot was mentioned about his sexual past.
Miranda Tate was a consierge at the luxury condo that Luke called home. She came across and prim and proper and really different than what you would expect a famous NFL quarterback to go for.
Luke and Miranda spend time getting to know each other. IMO, They spent too much time tip toeing around each other at the start of the book. They try to determine if they can work, despite their differences.
-hot alpha quarterback
-prim and proper heroine (she warmed up after she and Luke became intimate)
-absolutely no cheating or ow/om drama
-some pushing away
-a moderate amount of sex scenes
-HFN ending (needed better epilogue)
* Gavin's story is up next (not sure of release date) He came across as very annoying in the beginning of the book, but recovered some towards the end. I hope he gets a great story that redeems his character. My wish would be a great wrap up of all of the couples lives in the next book.
3.5 stars ☆☆☆.5
When reading a sports romance, the hero is more often than not a playboy/manwhore. Luke Archer was a down to earth H who didn't flaunt his past conquest throughout the book. Although it was briefly implied that he didn't have serious relationships (especially during the football season), not a lot was mentioned about his sexual past.
Miranda Tate was a consierge at the luxury condo that Luke called home. She came across and prim and proper and really different than what you would expect a famous NFL quarterback to go for.
Luke and Miranda spend time getting to know each other. IMO, They spent too much time tip toeing around each other at the start of the book. They try to determine if they can work, despite their differences.
-hot alpha quarterback
-prim and proper heroine (she warmed up after she and Luke became intimate)
-absolutely no cheating or ow/om drama
-some pushing away
-a moderate amount of sex scenes
-HFN ending (needed better epilogue)
* Gavin's story is up next (not sure of release date) He came across as very annoying in the beginning of the book, but recovered some towards the end. I hope he gets a great story that redeems his character. My wish would be a great wrap up of all of the couples lives in the next book.
December 16, 2016
4/5
Safe read!
H was not a man whore
H was super sweet and down to earth
h was also super sweet and kind!!
No OW Drama!
Loved the family aspect to this book!
Slight push and pull, he's an all star football QB and she's a farm girl... she did not think she was good enough, he thought she was distracting him from the game.... but they both love each other.
Very good build up between characters, the book flows very well from just meeting, friends, lovers, and onwards. This book was also easy to read. No BS writing to "fill space"!! It was very well written!!
Loved the first book, loved this one, and can't wait for the 3rd book!!
I love how the prologue ties all three men in each book.
I would have loved to seen a bigger epilogue... or at least more into the future for the character in stead of a few months... maybe a few years.
Over all a must read.
Safe read!
H was not a man whore
H was super sweet and down to earth
h was also super sweet and kind!!
No OW Drama!
Loved the family aspect to this book!
Slight push and pull, he's an all star football QB and she's a farm girl... she did not think she was good enough, he thought she was distracting him from the game.... but they both love each other.
Very good build up between characters, the book flows very well from just meeting, friends, lovers, and onwards. This book was also easy to read. No BS writing to "fill space"!! It was very well written!!
Loved the first book, loved this one, and can't wait for the 3rd book!!
I love how the prologue ties all three men in each book.
I would have loved to seen a bigger epilogue... or at least more into the future for the character in stead of a few months... maybe a few years.
Over all a must read.
May 15, 2017
Three billionaires walk into the exclusive Bellwether Club... Sounds like the start to a bad joke. But it’s actually the premise of Nancy Herkness’ Wager of Hearts series. Self-made billionaire Nathan Trainor, Quarterback Luke Archer and author Gavin Miller have had it with women who only want them for their money and what they can do for them. In a drunken encounter, the three make a bet to find true love within a year’s time.
Luke Archer is the quarterback for the New York Empire NFL football team. He’s a four-time Super Bowl champion and has already established his place in history. At the age of thirty-six he’s hit with the harsh reality that his playing time is ending when a good friend retires. Luke is starting to wonder who he’s going to be after football. For so long, football has been his life.
Miranda Tate has always had big dreams. She left her family's dairy farm in upstate New York for the bright lights and big city of New York City. Being a concierge was never on her radar, but she’s really good at what she does. She’s currently biding her time working for a less than desirable boss, until a head concierge position opens up.
Luke and Miranda’s worlds collide when Luke’s younger brother reports her for not providing services he requested. Immediately, Luke is drawn to her even though he has a self-imposed no dating during the season rule. When Luke gets hurt, he uses Miranda’s services to get closer to her. The two quickly go from a client relationship to something much more.
From start to finish, I loved The All-Star Antes Up. Luke and Miranda were extremely likeable characters. Their attraction was immediate and the sex is combustible. There’s so much more to Luke Archer than he shows the world, but Miranda is able to see the real him and give his confidence a well deserved boost. For his part, Luke sees the extraordinary woman Miranda is and knows immediately that she’s someone who wants him for him and not his bank account or celebrity.
The All-Star Antes Up shows readers what it’s like to be a football player, complete with all the trappings of being a celebrity and having people use you. It also shows what it means to be a real southern gentleman being blindsided by a love you aren’t looking for. This story shows what we will do for family and those we love.
It should be noted that while The All-Star Antes Up is the second book in the Wager of Hearts series it can be read as a standalone.
**Received a copy from the author and reviewed voluntarily.**
Luke Archer is the quarterback for the New York Empire NFL football team. He’s a four-time Super Bowl champion and has already established his place in history. At the age of thirty-six he’s hit with the harsh reality that his playing time is ending when a good friend retires. Luke is starting to wonder who he’s going to be after football. For so long, football has been his life.
Miranda Tate has always had big dreams. She left her family's dairy farm in upstate New York for the bright lights and big city of New York City. Being a concierge was never on her radar, but she’s really good at what she does. She’s currently biding her time working for a less than desirable boss, until a head concierge position opens up.
Luke and Miranda’s worlds collide when Luke’s younger brother reports her for not providing services he requested. Immediately, Luke is drawn to her even though he has a self-imposed no dating during the season rule. When Luke gets hurt, he uses Miranda’s services to get closer to her. The two quickly go from a client relationship to something much more.
From start to finish, I loved The All-Star Antes Up. Luke and Miranda were extremely likeable characters. Their attraction was immediate and the sex is combustible. There’s so much more to Luke Archer than he shows the world, but Miranda is able to see the real him and give his confidence a well deserved boost. For his part, Luke sees the extraordinary woman Miranda is and knows immediately that she’s someone who wants him for him and not his bank account or celebrity.
The All-Star Antes Up shows readers what it’s like to be a football player, complete with all the trappings of being a celebrity and having people use you. It also shows what it means to be a real southern gentleman being blindsided by a love you aren’t looking for. This story shows what we will do for family and those we love.
It should be noted that while The All-Star Antes Up is the second book in the Wager of Hearts series it can be read as a standalone.
**Received a copy from the author and reviewed voluntarily.**
June 11, 2016
I don't know what it is about sports romance books but I sure do seem to love them. This one is no exception.
This story starts off with three bachelors making a drunken bet to find their one true love by the end of the year. Of course the next day when they're sober, they're regretting their decision but not one of them wants to be the one to bow out. This is the second book in the series with bachelor #2, Luke.
Luke is a famous quarterback that is very focused in his game. He wasn't full of himself, wasn't a womanizer and didn't expect people to bow down to him. He's very down to earth and felt he had to earn his way in life almost to the point he didn't believe he's good enough. Miranda, a small town farm girl with dreams of making it in the big city was also very down to earth and went out of her way to help others. They're an odd match but made a great couple.
You do get glimpses of bachelor #1 from the first book and his love interest but this book doesn't give anything away about the first book. You are safe to read this as a standalone if you prefer. I'm intrigued about bachelor #3. He wasn't a very likeable guy through the first half of this book so I'll be curious how the author will turn things around for him in book 3. He did get better towards the end so I won't be surprised if I end up liking him in his book.
It was a very cute story and there wasn't over the top drama.
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This story starts off with three bachelors making a drunken bet to find their one true love by the end of the year. Of course the next day when they're sober, they're regretting their decision but not one of them wants to be the one to bow out. This is the second book in the series with bachelor #2, Luke.
Luke is a famous quarterback that is very focused in his game. He wasn't full of himself, wasn't a womanizer and didn't expect people to bow down to him. He's very down to earth and felt he had to earn his way in life almost to the point he didn't believe he's good enough. Miranda, a small town farm girl with dreams of making it in the big city was also very down to earth and went out of her way to help others. They're an odd match but made a great couple.
You do get glimpses of bachelor #1 from the first book and his love interest but this book doesn't give anything away about the first book. You are safe to read this as a standalone if you prefer. I'm intrigued about bachelor #3. He wasn't a very likeable guy through the first half of this book so I'll be curious how the author will turn things around for him in book 3. He did get better towards the end so I won't be surprised if I end up liking him in his book.
It was a very cute story and there wasn't over the top drama.
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 20, 2016
So I didn't read book one, but from the prologue I got the gist of what was going on. Also, I downloaded the audio version of the book in conjunction with the book so I could listen to the story during a road trip last weekend. So let me start by saying the story isn't bad, I liked both of the characters, there is little drama, and an HEA. However, what I had an issue with is this book is long and wordy. Sooo long. I had a three hour drive, and I found myself getting frustrated that the story just wasn't moving along very quickly. I guess that is where if I had the book I would have started to skim....but you can't skim audio while driving.
The heroine was good, the hero good, the romance good. It was just soooooooo long. I could have cut the book in half, got the story, felt the romance, and been happy. Would I recommend? For Kindle Unlimited, sure. Not sure if I would really pay for a fluffy wordy book. However, you may like it. Just not for me. Would I read more? I won't read the first book now since I know what happened from what I gleaned from book 2. But the Author's story, book 3, might be entertaining. Just my opinions, take em or leave em.
The heroine was good, the hero good, the romance good. It was just soooooooo long. I could have cut the book in half, got the story, felt the romance, and been happy. Would I recommend? For Kindle Unlimited, sure. Not sure if I would really pay for a fluffy wordy book. However, you may like it. Just not for me. Would I read more? I won't read the first book now since I know what happened from what I gleaned from book 2. But the Author's story, book 3, might be entertaining. Just my opinions, take em or leave em.
April 1, 2016
ARC NetGalley. I love sports romance. I'm not a fan of insta-love but this book won me over because of the type of people the MC were and the situation that Luke had gotten himself into. I think what I'm really saying is that you get a well developed story here and the characters are pretty real. Celebrity athletes do have a different life. When Luke had to sneak in the back of the museum to avoid autographs and missed the effect of walking into the front of the exhibit or entering restaurants by the alley, you knew it was different for him. Could Miranda deal with that? She was a strong woman in this book. She worked honestly for her clients and saw the good in people. She was interested in what people's needs were. Luke saw the whole picture when viewing the field. This was a lovely book to read and very very hot. I want to re-read Miranda and Luke dancing at Cletes. whoa.
April 18, 2023
Un volum care aduce în față un fundaș de renume din NFL, un findaș de Super Bowl, dar și o tânără femeie care muncește din greu pentru a-și ajuta fratele.
Miranda și Luke nu par a avea nimic în comun în afara faptului că ea lucrează în complexul rezidențial unde locuiește el.
Impresiile mele aici:
https://justreadingmybooks.wordpress....
Miranda și Luke nu par a avea nimic în comun în afara faptului că ea lucrează în complexul rezidențial unde locuiește el.
Impresiile mele aici:
https://justreadingmybooks.wordpress....
January 6, 2019
I really liked the first book in this series and I loved this one even more. The male main character at the end.... absolutely swoon-worthy.
May 31, 2016
My Musings
This is the second book in Nancy Herkness’ Wager of Hearts series. I read the first book, The CEO Buys In, several months ago and was eagerly waiting for this one to be released when I found it on Net-Galley. Of course, I requested it. As with Book 1, The All-Star Antes Up is a great read.
Although Luke Archer agreed to the wager, he doesn’t have time to look for his true love since he’s in the middle of football season and with a mysterious pain in his shoulder causing him problems, he has to keep his attention on his game. When his brother’s misbehavior has him running interference, the last thing he expects is to find the woman who just might be THE ONE.
As hard as he tries to keep it casual, his heart wants the exact opposite. Can he ask her to wait, or should he break it off and let her go?
I enjoyed the easy banter between Miranda and Luke. The pacing is great, and the story kept me entertained from start to finish. Both characters are easy to like. Miranda is feisty and independent. Luke is, of course, a hunk, but better yet, a really nice guy. The chemistry between them sizzles and only gets hotter as the story unfolds.
While sports romance is not my cup of tea, I could appreciate the research Ms. Herkness did regarding the football scenes. She obviously has a great love of the game, and it came through in her writing. She also must have done her research on dairy farming as well, since that was in Miranda’s storyline.
I thoroughly enjoyed Miranda and Luke’s love story and absolutely loved their “happily ever after.” I can’t wait for Gavin’s story. He’s the third person involved in the wager and so far, his character has been a bit of the instigator. I think his story could very well be the best one of the three. If you enjoy a light-hearted read with great characters, then you will want to read The All-Star Antes Up. Happy reading!
This is the second book in Nancy Herkness’ Wager of Hearts series. I read the first book, The CEO Buys In, several months ago and was eagerly waiting for this one to be released when I found it on Net-Galley. Of course, I requested it. As with Book 1, The All-Star Antes Up is a great read.
Although Luke Archer agreed to the wager, he doesn’t have time to look for his true love since he’s in the middle of football season and with a mysterious pain in his shoulder causing him problems, he has to keep his attention on his game. When his brother’s misbehavior has him running interference, the last thing he expects is to find the woman who just might be THE ONE.
As hard as he tries to keep it casual, his heart wants the exact opposite. Can he ask her to wait, or should he break it off and let her go?
I enjoyed the easy banter between Miranda and Luke. The pacing is great, and the story kept me entertained from start to finish. Both characters are easy to like. Miranda is feisty and independent. Luke is, of course, a hunk, but better yet, a really nice guy. The chemistry between them sizzles and only gets hotter as the story unfolds.
While sports romance is not my cup of tea, I could appreciate the research Ms. Herkness did regarding the football scenes. She obviously has a great love of the game, and it came through in her writing. She also must have done her research on dairy farming as well, since that was in Miranda’s storyline.
I thoroughly enjoyed Miranda and Luke’s love story and absolutely loved their “happily ever after.” I can’t wait for Gavin’s story. He’s the third person involved in the wager and so far, his character has been a bit of the instigator. I think his story could very well be the best one of the three. If you enjoy a light-hearted read with great characters, then you will want to read The All-Star Antes Up. Happy reading!
May 9, 2017
I hate football. But I'm so sure if I had the chance to watch Luke playing, I would definitely buy a ticket.
This is the second book of the "Wager of Hearts" series. The series is about three billionaires who decided to gamble on finding true love in a year time .
Luke and Miranda
Normally, I don't read books about footballers (I'm not a football fan) but I decided to give this book a try because wagers always intrigue me.
Luke
This is the story of Luke, a successful quarterback and Miranda, the assistant concierge .
Luke and Miranda met because of a nasty incident caused by Trevor, Luke's brother.
To make it up to her, Luke sent Miranda four VIP box tickets with the works. And that's how their journey began.
Luke lived for football. Women were always the second in his list with the"no rings no strings" rule but Miranda was different.
One brush of her breasts against him and he wanted the whole package".
Miranda was a successful assistant . She was at the beck and call of all the residents of the Pinnacle. They all love her because she was discreet and loyal.
She wasn't a football fan but one ticket from the well known and successful quarterback Luke Archer made her join the fan club.
But the quarterback wanted more than a groupie.
He wanted the kind and perceptive Miranda that gave him the most warm smile he'd ever seen.
I loved the story of Luke and Miranda. It was an insta love story but it was written in a very beautiful way. I'm looking forward to Gavin Miller's story.
Copy provided by NetGalley.
June 11, 2017
Romantic
I loved the story of Luke and Miranda. It was fun and sweet. This is the first book I read from the author. I will read the others now.
I loved the story of Luke and Miranda. It was fun and sweet. This is the first book I read from the author. I will read the others now.
July 22, 2018
Vraiment bof, j’ai pas réussi a m’accrocher au couple mais j’ai adoré le métier de Concierge pour immeuble de luxe !!!
March 31, 2016
I absolutely loved this book. For me, the romances I tend to be drawn too are the ones with the bad boy. The boy who messes around a with too many girls, has commitment phobia, and is just an all around douche. The All-Star Antes Up wasn't one of those books, and I'll tell you why.
The story was very well written. You could tell that the author writing this wasn't just throwing words on a page, it was well thought out and planned. There was just enough of a mystery to the book. Of course, from the very beginning I know who Luke would end up with, that's how it is in every romance book. But I really enjoyed how the plot progressed. It was easy to follow along and a quick read. I found that I was enjoying every moment of reading. There was always something interesting going on.
Miranda, damn she’s a spitfire. She knew what she wanted and she went for it. She was also amazing at her job and very hardworking. She didn’t let things get her down and handled problems very well. Right off the bat I knew that I would enjoy her character. She did everything for her clients and made sure that they were well taken care of. I respected her so much throughout the story. She wouldn’t let things get her down too much. Sure, she was sad during some scenes, but she got right back up and moved along. She was strong, caring, respectful, loving, and kind. I loved her character so much.
Luke, oh Luke. First off, he was a Texas rancher and that made me love him right away. He was also an amazing football quarterback who went to The University of Texas. He’s from my home state and went to a school that I respect very much, so that means I just had to love him. He also had those southern manners. Those are very hard to come by these days and it made him so much better. He loved so much, between his brother and his family, that he tried to not let anyone down. He was also so strong, not just in the physical sense, in the emotional sense. He was the same as Miranda, he knew what he wanted and went after it. I loved Luke’s character. He wasn’t your typical messed up jock that seems to be so popular recently. He had a good head on his shoulders and he respected people. He was kind to his fans, especially the children. He was an all around good person. Even though he was nicknamed the Iceman, he wasn’t as cold as he seemed.
The All-Star Antes Up was such a good read. I loved every second of it. My roommate even had to tell me at one point to turn off my iPad and go to sleep because I was up late reading. This book is full of steamy, swoon worthy, and hilarious moments. Pick up The All-Star Antes Up today if you’re in the mood for a great read!
The story was very well written. You could tell that the author writing this wasn't just throwing words on a page, it was well thought out and planned. There was just enough of a mystery to the book. Of course, from the very beginning I know who Luke would end up with, that's how it is in every romance book. But I really enjoyed how the plot progressed. It was easy to follow along and a quick read. I found that I was enjoying every moment of reading. There was always something interesting going on.
Miranda, damn she’s a spitfire. She knew what she wanted and she went for it. She was also amazing at her job and very hardworking. She didn’t let things get her down and handled problems very well. Right off the bat I knew that I would enjoy her character. She did everything for her clients and made sure that they were well taken care of. I respected her so much throughout the story. She wouldn’t let things get her down too much. Sure, she was sad during some scenes, but she got right back up and moved along. She was strong, caring, respectful, loving, and kind. I loved her character so much.
Luke, oh Luke. First off, he was a Texas rancher and that made me love him right away. He was also an amazing football quarterback who went to The University of Texas. He’s from my home state and went to a school that I respect very much, so that means I just had to love him. He also had those southern manners. Those are very hard to come by these days and it made him so much better. He loved so much, between his brother and his family, that he tried to not let anyone down. He was also so strong, not just in the physical sense, in the emotional sense. He was the same as Miranda, he knew what he wanted and went after it. I loved Luke’s character. He wasn’t your typical messed up jock that seems to be so popular recently. He had a good head on his shoulders and he respected people. He was kind to his fans, especially the children. He was an all around good person. Even though he was nicknamed the Iceman, he wasn’t as cold as he seemed.
The All-Star Antes Up was such a good read. I loved every second of it. My roommate even had to tell me at one point to turn off my iPad and go to sleep because I was up late reading. This book is full of steamy, swoon worthy, and hilarious moments. Pick up The All-Star Antes Up today if you’re in the mood for a great read!
August 21, 2016
****ARC was provided by Montlake Romance via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.****
I really enjoyed this book. The premise is that three billionaires that belong to an exclusive club made a bet with each other that they would find love within a year or lose something of importance to donate to charity.
Though I started with this 2nd book of the series first instead of the 1st book I felt that this could be read as a standalone even if there were references to characters in the first book. I thought this book was wonderful in getting deep into the psyche of the main characters, Luke Archer and Miranda Tate.
I liked how Miranda was in awe of Luke because he's rich, famous, and gorgeous. We get those books where the heroine is clueless about how famous the hero is or doesn't care about it (and I do like those books), but it is sometime refreshing to get the true to life reaction to a famous person where you stutter and are starstruck. Miranda was like that but in a sweet kind of way. She wasn't an annoying character that only wanted to be with Luke because of his celebrity status.
Luke's character as the four time Superbowl champion quarterback of his NFL football team wasn't so arrogant as I expected him to be. Not too much of an alpha male, but a sweet, considerate and hardworking athlete. He grew up in a household of academics and always felt like the odd person out since his interest was in football and both his parents are teachers and his brother is a Harvard grad. However, Luke's jerk of a brother, Trevor, is jealous of Luke's fame and fortune, but Luke tells Trevor that he is the lucky one because Trevor's got a wife who loves him.
This book was a really good read and I am going to definitely be checking out the 1st book in the series about Nathan Trainor the billionaire CEO, though I'm more curious about the writer Gavin Miller, who seemed to annoy both Luke and Nathan.
June 2, 2016
Nancy Herkness really knows how to write a great contemporary romance featuring a millionaire hero and the hard working heroine. This trope has been used time and again in romance novels, but with The All-Star Antes Up (Wager of the Heart #2), it’s fresh, original and engaging.
The Wager of Hearts series features three rich men who make a bet. Unless they all find love with that special woman within a year’s time, they will lose something materialistic they hold near and dear to them, plus give a very large amount to a charity. The All-Star Antes Up is Luke’s story. He’s a big time NFL quarterback and a self made millionaire who thinks his days are numbed playing football. He lives and breathes football, but also has good financial sense. He thinks his family only admires him for his sports skills and not his intelligence, unlike his brother Trevor, who is very smart. Trevor is staying with Luke while he finds a job as a professor at one of the prestigious colleges surrounding NYC. But Trevor isn’t an ideal roommate. He’s become rude, cranky and almost cheats on his wife by asking for an escort via the concierge in Luke’s building. Because of that illegal request, Luke meets Miranda.
The All-Star Antes Up kept me riveted from beginning to end. I love this type of story, and the setup. The chemistry between Miranda and Luke is great, especially the first love scene. Luke puts his home gym to good use, and WOW, what a scorcher! I also loved how normal and just plain nice these two are, especially when Luke tries to help Trevor, who is in a downward spiral.
There are some misunderstandings and drama that arises to bring about a great HEA for Miranda and Luke. Finding out what Luke was willing to give up to find a forever love with a woman was a nice wink wink reveal.
The All-Star Antes Up impressed me so much that it’s one of the first book I’ve read for 2016 that gave me the warm fuzzies and will probably go down as one of my favorite of this year.
The Wager of Hearts series features three rich men who make a bet. Unless they all find love with that special woman within a year’s time, they will lose something materialistic they hold near and dear to them, plus give a very large amount to a charity. The All-Star Antes Up is Luke’s story. He’s a big time NFL quarterback and a self made millionaire who thinks his days are numbed playing football. He lives and breathes football, but also has good financial sense. He thinks his family only admires him for his sports skills and not his intelligence, unlike his brother Trevor, who is very smart. Trevor is staying with Luke while he finds a job as a professor at one of the prestigious colleges surrounding NYC. But Trevor isn’t an ideal roommate. He’s become rude, cranky and almost cheats on his wife by asking for an escort via the concierge in Luke’s building. Because of that illegal request, Luke meets Miranda.
The All-Star Antes Up kept me riveted from beginning to end. I love this type of story, and the setup. The chemistry between Miranda and Luke is great, especially the first love scene. Luke puts his home gym to good use, and WOW, what a scorcher! I also loved how normal and just plain nice these two are, especially when Luke tries to help Trevor, who is in a downward spiral.
There are some misunderstandings and drama that arises to bring about a great HEA for Miranda and Luke. Finding out what Luke was willing to give up to find a forever love with a woman was a nice wink wink reveal.
The All-Star Antes Up impressed me so much that it’s one of the first book I’ve read for 2016 that gave me the warm fuzzies and will probably go down as one of my favorite of this year.
April 25, 2016
Nancy Herkness is a new author to me and I found I really did enjoy this read. The story is about a billionaire football quarterback and a hard working concierge who find their HEA.
This is the second book in The Wager of Hearts series and it could be read as a standalone. The story starts out with three very different billionaires ( football player, CEO and a author) drinking and making a bet. They all need to find love and get engaged in a years time. These three men bet something that means a lot to them so the stakes are high.
In this story we meet Luke who is a nfl quarterback, he lives for the game but he knows his years are numbered. His brother, Trevor, is staying with him and he's not a great roommate, but because of one of his brothers choices Luke gets to meet Miranda.
Miranda is a concierge working in Luke's building. She is hard working and sends majority of her earning back home to her brother. After she denied Trevor's request she meets Luke for the first time and as a thank you Luke sends her Vip tickets to his game and some merchandise.
These two had some great chemistry. I loved how they started out writing thank you to moving up to phone calls. Luke might be a billionaire and used to getting what he wants but he also is kind and very charming. This story reminded me of Maid in Manhattan with little twists.
Luke and Miranda have some pretty steamy love scenes in very unique places I.e. Home gym and the elevator. The love scenes are greatly detailed but they also show how much chemistry these two actually have.
In the end I was totally happy on how Miranda and Luke received their HEA. The All-Star Antes Up is a recommend read for this year. In fact I'm looking to reading more by this author since I enjoyed this story so much!
This is the second book in The Wager of Hearts series and it could be read as a standalone. The story starts out with three very different billionaires ( football player, CEO and a author) drinking and making a bet. They all need to find love and get engaged in a years time. These three men bet something that means a lot to them so the stakes are high.
In this story we meet Luke who is a nfl quarterback, he lives for the game but he knows his years are numbered. His brother, Trevor, is staying with him and he's not a great roommate, but because of one of his brothers choices Luke gets to meet Miranda.
Miranda is a concierge working in Luke's building. She is hard working and sends majority of her earning back home to her brother. After she denied Trevor's request she meets Luke for the first time and as a thank you Luke sends her Vip tickets to his game and some merchandise.
These two had some great chemistry. I loved how they started out writing thank you to moving up to phone calls. Luke might be a billionaire and used to getting what he wants but he also is kind and very charming. This story reminded me of Maid in Manhattan with little twists.
Luke and Miranda have some pretty steamy love scenes in very unique places I.e. Home gym and the elevator. The love scenes are greatly detailed but they also show how much chemistry these two actually have.
In the end I was totally happy on how Miranda and Luke received their HEA. The All-Star Antes Up is a recommend read for this year. In fact I'm looking to reading more by this author since I enjoyed this story so much!
June 17, 2016
It’s the fantasy of many women to have a celebrity fall madly in love with them, but it also begs the question: In our TMZ culture can a normal relationship stand up against the risks of public exposure or pressure to make something real out of that fantasy? In The All-Star Antes Up, football superstar Luke Archer and concierge Miranda Tate have to beat the spread and put up a good defense in order to win the game of love.
Star quarterback Luke Archer has never been the type to get attached to a woman. Football has always been his first love and staying at the top of his game requires Luke to shut-out any distractions that come from outside the game. His rule of “No Strings – No Rings” has served him well in choosing girlfriends who are good for a short relationship in the off season but don’t stick around past training camp. On track to take his team - the New York Empire - all the way to the Super Bowl for the fifth time, Luke is forced to take time away from the field when his younger brother causes an embarrassing situation with the concierge service at his Manhattan apartment building. Hoping to keep the whole thing out of the press, Luke offers the concierge manager and his assistant Miranda Tate premium tickets to a home game but is shocked when Miranda respectfully declines the offer. Intrigued that Miranda isn’t using her leverage over him for her own gain Luke takes the initiative and sets up a VIP experience for her as a way of saying thanks.
Please read the full review at All About Romance
Star quarterback Luke Archer has never been the type to get attached to a woman. Football has always been his first love and staying at the top of his game requires Luke to shut-out any distractions that come from outside the game. His rule of “No Strings – No Rings” has served him well in choosing girlfriends who are good for a short relationship in the off season but don’t stick around past training camp. On track to take his team - the New York Empire - all the way to the Super Bowl for the fifth time, Luke is forced to take time away from the field when his younger brother causes an embarrassing situation with the concierge service at his Manhattan apartment building. Hoping to keep the whole thing out of the press, Luke offers the concierge manager and his assistant Miranda Tate premium tickets to a home game but is shocked when Miranda respectfully declines the offer. Intrigued that Miranda isn’t using her leverage over him for her own gain Luke takes the initiative and sets up a VIP experience for her as a way of saying thanks.
Please read the full review at All About Romance
April 6, 2016
This is the second book in what I assume is a 3 book series. I received an ARC of this from netgalley and was thrilled as I read the first book "The CEO Buys In" last year and loved it , I think I read it twice.
Luke Archer is a 36 year old quarterback at the top of his game but when he looks to the future is uncertain. He sees a friend retiring from football to spend time with his wife and kids and thinks maybe he is missing something. He is used to women wanting him for his celebrity only and has given up on relationships.
Miranda Tate is an assistant concierge at his luxury apartment in New York City. She has worked hard after leaving her family's dairy farm to achieve her dreams and loves her job. When Luke, finally encounters her due to an incident while his brother is visiting, he is instantly attracted and feels compassion for the situation she finds herself in with her boss .
Luke and Miranda have great chemistry and their story is so credible it could be real life. It felt genuine how they had to sneak around to enjoy time at a museum in order to avoid being mobbed or to sign autographs and how they entered a restaurant from an alley to have a meal in privacy.
Miranda sees the good in everybody, she is such a strong person and is committed to pleasing her clients but can she be strong enough to survive the celebrity of Luke and and his commitment to putting football first.
I really enjoyed reading this. The story is well written, the characters are well developed, the book flows and holds your interest. All in all a good read, what more can you ask for in a book? Bring on book number 3.
Luke Archer is a 36 year old quarterback at the top of his game but when he looks to the future is uncertain. He sees a friend retiring from football to spend time with his wife and kids and thinks maybe he is missing something. He is used to women wanting him for his celebrity only and has given up on relationships.
Miranda Tate is an assistant concierge at his luxury apartment in New York City. She has worked hard after leaving her family's dairy farm to achieve her dreams and loves her job. When Luke, finally encounters her due to an incident while his brother is visiting, he is instantly attracted and feels compassion for the situation she finds herself in with her boss .
Luke and Miranda have great chemistry and their story is so credible it could be real life. It felt genuine how they had to sneak around to enjoy time at a museum in order to avoid being mobbed or to sign autographs and how they entered a restaurant from an alley to have a meal in privacy.
Miranda sees the good in everybody, she is such a strong person and is committed to pleasing her clients but can she be strong enough to survive the celebrity of Luke and and his commitment to putting football first.
I really enjoyed reading this. The story is well written, the characters are well developed, the book flows and holds your interest. All in all a good read, what more can you ask for in a book? Bring on book number 3.
May 19, 2016
“No strings, no rings.” That’s Luke Archer’s motto. As the champion quarterback for the New York Empire—not to mention a self-made billionaire—Luke has given up on serious relationships. Women only want him for one thing: the thrill of being with a superstar. And he can’t risk love distracting him from his next Super Bowl victory. But when his best friend announces he’s retiring from football to spend time with his wife and kids, Luke feels like he’s missing out on something much bigger than his career.
The assistant concierge in Luke’s luxury high-rise, Miranda Tate fled her family’s dairy farm to come to the bright lights of New York City. She works hard to move up and sends her spare earnings home to her brother. When she and Luke meet, there’s an instant attraction, but they’re in completely different leagues. Could Miranda be just the woman Luke needs to win the most important game of his life?
I was given this book for an honest review. Now with that said...book 2 in the Wager of Hearts series did not let me done! I really enjoyed reading Luke and Miranda's story. The characters were well developed and I was able to feel what they felt. I found this series by chance but I am enjoying it! I can't wait for book 3!
The assistant concierge in Luke’s luxury high-rise, Miranda Tate fled her family’s dairy farm to come to the bright lights of New York City. She works hard to move up and sends her spare earnings home to her brother. When she and Luke meet, there’s an instant attraction, but they’re in completely different leagues. Could Miranda be just the woman Luke needs to win the most important game of his life?
I was given this book for an honest review. Now with that said...book 2 in the Wager of Hearts series did not let me done! I really enjoyed reading Luke and Miranda's story. The characters were well developed and I was able to feel what they felt. I found this series by chance but I am enjoying it! I can't wait for book 3!
May 28, 2016
I loved this book! The second book in the Wager of the Hearts after reading and loving the first book in the series I was really looking forward to this one and it didn't disappoint.
Luke Archer is the quarterback of the New York Empire arguably the best quarterback who ever played the game. That's on the outside, to Luke he is just an aging jock who doesn't know anything but football. After being injured and bench he decides he needs something new and Miranda Tate the concierge in his building may be the person for that.
Miranda loves her job, helping her tenants is her calling. When she gets in trouble because she wouldn't help Luke's brother because it was against policy and ethics Luke feels bad and offers her and her brothers family VIP tickets to game he begins to win Miranda's heart. Knowing that this is a short time romance can both Luke and Miranda survive after its done.
First I love Nancy Herkness writing style, the story is told in 3rd person dual POVs which is very difficult to do. The storyline arc of Luke was well played and extremely satisfying. We got to see more of Nathan and Gavin and with Gavin's book coming up its was great to see more of him.
I highly recommend this series and especially this book, you won't be disappointed.
Luke Archer is the quarterback of the New York Empire arguably the best quarterback who ever played the game. That's on the outside, to Luke he is just an aging jock who doesn't know anything but football. After being injured and bench he decides he needs something new and Miranda Tate the concierge in his building may be the person for that.
Miranda loves her job, helping her tenants is her calling. When she gets in trouble because she wouldn't help Luke's brother because it was against policy and ethics Luke feels bad and offers her and her brothers family VIP tickets to game he begins to win Miranda's heart. Knowing that this is a short time romance can both Luke and Miranda survive after its done.
First I love Nancy Herkness writing style, the story is told in 3rd person dual POVs which is very difficult to do. The storyline arc of Luke was well played and extremely satisfying. We got to see more of Nathan and Gavin and with Gavin's book coming up its was great to see more of him.
I highly recommend this series and especially this book, you won't be disappointed.
March 30, 2016
I found Luke to be a very sweet man, "he stopped in front of her, his hands shoved into his jeans pockets. “I owe you more than a football for putting up with Trevor’s crap. Tell me what I can do to make it right with your boss.” The chemistry between Miranda and Luke is off the charts:
She smiled, even though he couldn’t see her. “Like a hard-riding cowboy.”
“You were the one ridin’, sugar.”
“And it was one heck of a rodeo.”
She started to shift on his lap, but he held her in place. “Rest a spell. I like having an armful of warm, satisfied woman.”
I really enjoyed this book I loved Luke.
She smiled, even though he couldn’t see her. “Like a hard-riding cowboy.”
“You were the one ridin’, sugar.”
“And it was one heck of a rodeo.”
She started to shift on his lap, but he held her in place. “Rest a spell. I like having an armful of warm, satisfied woman.”
I really enjoyed this book I loved Luke.
September 11, 2021
4.5🌟
I already said this on the first book review, going to say this again. It's such a calm, cute, lovely and light story. Perfect strangers to lover book.
Totally recommend for you guys that need an escape from reading a heavy book. Excellent writing 💯💯💯
I already said this on the first book review, going to say this again. It's such a calm, cute, lovely and light story. Perfect strangers to lover book.
Totally recommend for you guys that need an escape from reading a heavy book. Excellent writing 💯💯💯
January 5, 2019
http://www.voluptueusementvotre.fr/20...
Les livres se suivent et ne se ressemblent heureusement pas. Après avoir essuyé une vive déception avec ma précédente lecture, je suis absolument ravie de finir celle-ci sur une note bien plus positive.
Luke Archer est un homme qui a su parler à mon cœur. Je ne suis pourtant pas une adepte des sportifs qui me laissent généralement plutôt froide. Seulement voilà, Nancy Herkness a créé un Dieu vivant de la NFL a un tournant décisif de sa vie. Elle l’a doté d’émotions contradictoires, de sentiments tout aussi confus et l’a pourvu d’une sensibilité et d’un altruisme très attrayants. Je vous avoue que ces associations ne m’ont pas laissée de marbre et que mon intérêt pour sa personne s’est accru au fil des chapitres.
Après cet éloge à la légende du football américain, revenons-en à mon avis sur l’ensemble de ce roman. Tout d’abord, j’ai beaucoup aimé le rappel de l’auteure quant à la rencontre des trois gentlemen au Bellwether Club. Cela a ravivé mes souvenirs et m’a permis d’apprécier les moments qu’ils ont en commun et l’histoire parallèle de notre couple avec celui du premier tome de la saga.
Ensuite, j’ai été charmé par l’association Miranda et Luke. Je reconnais sans peine que le fond de cette romance n’a rien d’exceptionnel, toutefois, Nancy Herkness les a particulièrement bien dirigés et le rendu est très agréable. On oscille tour à tour entre découvertes et moments sensuels extrêmement érotiques (je ne verrai d’ailleurs plus jamais une salle de musculation de la même manière). De plus, le compte à rebours qui se met en place rend chacun de leur moment plus intense et plus profond. Enfin, leur maladresse lors de leurs différentes rencontres les rend vraiment attachants.
Le champion est un livre que j’attendais avec impatience et qui loin de m’avoir déçue, m’a permis de passer un très bon moment en compagnie de ce nouveau duo. Alors bien sûr, ce récit ne bouleversera pas votre univers littéraire, mais il remplit parfaitement son office en vous plongeant au cœur d’une belle histoire d’amour comme on les aime.
Reste maintenant à savoir ce que cache l’intrigant Gavin Miller et s’il va enfin mettre la main sur sa muse et dépasser le syndrome de la page blanche. Aucune date n’est encore annoncée, mais espérons que ce dernier opus ne tardera pas trop.
Les livres se suivent et ne se ressemblent heureusement pas. Après avoir essuyé une vive déception avec ma précédente lecture, je suis absolument ravie de finir celle-ci sur une note bien plus positive.
Luke Archer est un homme qui a su parler à mon cœur. Je ne suis pourtant pas une adepte des sportifs qui me laissent généralement plutôt froide. Seulement voilà, Nancy Herkness a créé un Dieu vivant de la NFL a un tournant décisif de sa vie. Elle l’a doté d’émotions contradictoires, de sentiments tout aussi confus et l’a pourvu d’une sensibilité et d’un altruisme très attrayants. Je vous avoue que ces associations ne m’ont pas laissée de marbre et que mon intérêt pour sa personne s’est accru au fil des chapitres.
Après cet éloge à la légende du football américain, revenons-en à mon avis sur l’ensemble de ce roman. Tout d’abord, j’ai beaucoup aimé le rappel de l’auteure quant à la rencontre des trois gentlemen au Bellwether Club. Cela a ravivé mes souvenirs et m’a permis d’apprécier les moments qu’ils ont en commun et l’histoire parallèle de notre couple avec celui du premier tome de la saga.
Ensuite, j’ai été charmé par l’association Miranda et Luke. Je reconnais sans peine que le fond de cette romance n’a rien d’exceptionnel, toutefois, Nancy Herkness les a particulièrement bien dirigés et le rendu est très agréable. On oscille tour à tour entre découvertes et moments sensuels extrêmement érotiques (je ne verrai d’ailleurs plus jamais une salle de musculation de la même manière). De plus, le compte à rebours qui se met en place rend chacun de leur moment plus intense et plus profond. Enfin, leur maladresse lors de leurs différentes rencontres les rend vraiment attachants.
Le champion est un livre que j’attendais avec impatience et qui loin de m’avoir déçue, m’a permis de passer un très bon moment en compagnie de ce nouveau duo. Alors bien sûr, ce récit ne bouleversera pas votre univers littéraire, mais il remplit parfaitement son office en vous plongeant au cœur d’une belle histoire d’amour comme on les aime.
Reste maintenant à savoir ce que cache l’intrigant Gavin Miller et s’il va enfin mettre la main sur sa muse et dépasser le syndrome de la page blanche. Aucune date n’est encore annoncée, mais espérons que ce dernier opus ne tardera pas trop.
April 6, 2020
4.5 Stars
This is the second book in the Wager of Hearts series by Nancy Herkness.
I am totally digging this series. I am finding Herkness to be one of my new favorite go-to authors.
Basic premise: Three men walk into an exclusive bar (a CEO, an Athlete and an Author) for billionaires and make a wager on love when the have given up on the concept. This book features Luke Archer, champion quarterback for the New York Empire. Miranda is an assistant concierge trying to make a name for herself but her boss is doing everything in his power to make her look bad and get her kicked out on her duff since everyone she deals with loves how she does her job making them happy.
This is one of those series you just need to read straight through. Not because you can’t get a handle on the plot but just because you need to know how it is going to wash out for all the man making the bets. I read the book about the CEO last year sometime and the storyline really stuck with me. So it was easy to get back into this world Herkness created.
Be prepared for a long wait as you read this. Nothing happens very quickly. It is like a slow burn that is just so good! Miranda is a bit of a hard head about doing things on her own and making her own way and that kinda contradicts Luke’s need to give her what she really wants even when she can’t provide for herself. They knock heads a lot just do to each’s unique stubbornness.
If you love a good contemporary romance with a bit of suspense, definitely check this one out. You won’t be disappointed.
This is the second book in the Wager of Hearts series by Nancy Herkness.
I am totally digging this series. I am finding Herkness to be one of my new favorite go-to authors.
Basic premise: Three men walk into an exclusive bar (a CEO, an Athlete and an Author) for billionaires and make a wager on love when the have given up on the concept. This book features Luke Archer, champion quarterback for the New York Empire. Miranda is an assistant concierge trying to make a name for herself but her boss is doing everything in his power to make her look bad and get her kicked out on her duff since everyone she deals with loves how she does her job making them happy.
This is one of those series you just need to read straight through. Not because you can’t get a handle on the plot but just because you need to know how it is going to wash out for all the man making the bets. I read the book about the CEO last year sometime and the storyline really stuck with me. So it was easy to get back into this world Herkness created.
Be prepared for a long wait as you read this. Nothing happens very quickly. It is like a slow burn that is just so good! Miranda is a bit of a hard head about doing things on her own and making her own way and that kinda contradicts Luke’s need to give her what she really wants even when she can’t provide for herself. They knock heads a lot just do to each’s unique stubbornness.
If you love a good contemporary romance with a bit of suspense, definitely check this one out. You won’t be disappointed.
February 3, 2019
Fantastic series
Book two of the Wagers of the Heart series by Nancy Herkness.
After the guys make the wager to find love in 1yr or give up something irreplaceable to them Nathan from first book ends up with Chloe and this makes the wager heat up between them.
Luke lives in a swanky hotel with a concierge that is then called to a meeting by his brother and the concierge boss. There he meets Miranda.
Thing fly very quickly between Luke and Miranda but I no part do it feel rush through story.
I love that Luke is a aging charter back and she helps he realise there’s more to him then he realises but also that he helps Miranda realise she has more to offer.
Loved this book and so looking forward to writers book and if he can find love and get rid of his writers block too.
Book two of the Wagers of the Heart series by Nancy Herkness.
After the guys make the wager to find love in 1yr or give up something irreplaceable to them Nathan from first book ends up with Chloe and this makes the wager heat up between them.
Luke lives in a swanky hotel with a concierge that is then called to a meeting by his brother and the concierge boss. There he meets Miranda.
Thing fly very quickly between Luke and Miranda but I no part do it feel rush through story.
I love that Luke is a aging charter back and she helps he realise there’s more to him then he realises but also that he helps Miranda realise she has more to offer.
Loved this book and so looking forward to writers book and if he can find love and get rid of his writers block too.
December 27, 2018
J'avais beaucoup aimé le 1er tome de cette saga et j'avais donc hâte de lire la suite sur le deuxième protagoniste de ce trio pas comme les autres. Luke Archer est joueur professionnel de football américain et c'est une légende vivante pour grand nombre de ses fans. Il est un génie sur le terrain et il brille de mille feux dès qu'il devient ce superbe quaterback . Mais à 35 ans, il sent qu'il est plus vers la fin de sa carrière que le début et surtout il pourrait bien aspirer à fonder une famille comme l'a fait un de ses anciens partenaires. Pourtant Luke a un problème : il ne parvient pas à trouver une femme qui l'aime pour ce qu'il est et non ce qu'il représente.
Chronique complète : https://thelovelyteacheraddictions.bl...
Chronique complète : https://thelovelyteacheraddictions.bl...
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